Music Lessons

" I had the incredible opportunity to learn old-time fiddle from Lydia Garrison for about four year (ages 10-14), and I can’t recommend her highly enough. I first met Lydia through my dad, who was taking old-time banjo lessons from her. I had a small background in classical music from school, but once I started learning fiddle with Lydia in elementary school, I was hooked.

Lydia is not only an amazing teacher but also an incredible musician herself. I had the chance to see her perform in concert a few times, and watching her play was inspiring. Her patience, warmth, and enthusiasm made every lesson something I looked forward to. She has a true gift for teaching, making complex techniques feel accessible while nurturing a deep appreciation for the music.

If you’re considering taking lessons with Lydia, whether you're a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, I can confidently say you’ll be learning from one of the best. She has a way of making the learning process feel exciting and inspiring."

" Lydia is a patient and enthusiastic teacher. Her encouragement has helped me to cover more ground faster than books or videos. Playing the banjo is addictive in the very best way. Without her guidance, it would have taken so much longer.

Lydia is an amazing clawhammer banjo and old time fiddle player. I look forward to our lessons because she is such a talented musician with so much knowledge to share. Her lessons are  nurturing, supportive and fun!
She’s a friend and a guide and I feel so blessed to be her student."

" I am new to playing scrub board or any other instrument like it. In a short, impromptu lesson at a Cajun/Zydeco music camp, Lydia taught me the mechanics of how to play scrub board, how to feel the music, move my hands to the music, how loud or soft to play, and what that meant, sounded like, and felt like.  

As a teacher, she was amazing at connecting with me as a student, listening keenly to my level of experience, working WITH me, and being flexible to tailor her instruction to my experience and needs.  

Lydia is thoughtful, patient, kind, brilliant, and so encouraging!  I left with knowledge and confidence in my ability to continue to learn and play.  Her own love of music, talent and expertise in playing and understanding the role of many instruments in ensemble music, and her eagerness to share and teach is infectious.  

Anyone would be lucky to learn from Lydia.  Plus you feel like you’ve made a good friend. "